The Commuter - April 17, 2013 Edition

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April 17, 2013

THE

COMMUTER Linn-Benton Community College • Albany, Oregon

Volume 44 | Issue 23

Santiam Serves Up Savory Spread

Ted Holliday Copy Editor

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fter years of fine dining in Los Angeles, I’ve been searching for the same type of experience locally. Finally, I found it, and was surprised that it was right here on campus at the Santiam Restaurant.

The Food (5 of 5) The dish’s robust flavor, wonderful texture, perfect temperature, and beautiful presentation rival’s that of any five-star restaurant L.A. has to offer.

Deciding on a three-course meal, I had the chicken satay for the appetizer, hearth-fired dongo pork for the main course, and the grasshopper mint cheesecake for dessert.

My wife had the coconut shrimp in a puffed rice paper bowl for the appetizer, beef tenderloin medallions with espresso-whiskey sauce for the main course, espresso ice cream over a chocolate waffle for dessert, and a latte with a vanilla shot.

The coconut shrimp were crispy and at the right temperature. The mango sweet chili sauce complimented the shrimp like a good zinfandel with a flavorful blue cheese. In the main course, the dongo pork melted with every bite.

The vegetables were cooked to perfection, crispy and tender. The noodles were hot and bursting with flavor. In the beef tenderloin dish, the beef was tender, cooked medium, and served hot. The carrots were undercooked and a bit raw.

The espresso ice cream dessert was near perfection, heavenly to the palate, and well-presented. The end crust of the grasshopper mint cheesecake was hard. The rest of the dessert was flavorful.

Cleanliness/ Appearance (5 of 5) Bright white tablecloths with place settings were ready for the guests.

Fresh flowers provided each table an accent of color. Two of the walls were all windows, giving the restaurant a bright and fresh feeling.

For the daring, there was one table set up in the atrium just out the side entrance. This is the first table you’ll see when arriving. It’s a romantic date table or a personal intimate

photos by Ted Holliday

Top: Beef tenderloin medallions with espresso-whiskey sauce, mashed sweet potatoes and carrots.

Left to Right: Coconut shrimp in a puffed rice paper bowl with a mango sweet chili sauce. Chicken satay with peanut sauce. Espresso ice cream with white chololate chunks on a chocolate waffle and caramel sauce.

conversation place. There weren’t any disheveled staff members. All of them were wearing neatly pressed white shirts, white aprons, black ties, and black pants.

The Atmosphere (4.5 of 5) We were promptly greeted by Franny Woodcock, the dining room manager. With a smile, she escorted us

-opinion-

Re: Milk and Honey pg. 3 .

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web: commuter linnbenton edu

to our seats by a window. The lack of any music playing gave an eerie quietness until more customers arrived.

A recommendation would be to have some soft piano or jazz music playing in the background. This would enhance the dining experience even more. There was limited space, but it didn’t feel cramped. Lots of legroom and space between the tables provided

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a comfortable feel. Sitting in the small dining room gave more of an opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere.

The room was a comfortable temperature, like being at home ready to relax at the table for some good home cooked food, without the work and no mess to clean up.

Santiam: continued on Pg. 12

Welding Club pg. 7

Santiam Restaurant Where: CC-201 Hours: Mon.-Thru.

9:30-11 a.m. espresso/pastries 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. lunch

Walk-ins welcome

For reservations:

541-917-4392

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LBCC Choir pg. 12

• facebook: the commuter • twitter: @lbcommuter • email: commuter@linnbenton.edu

Opinion

Page 2 Wednesday, April 17, 2013

THE COMMUTER S TA F F The Commuter is the weekly student-run newspaper for LBCC, financed by student fees and advertising. Opinions expressed in The Commuter do not necessarily reflect those of the LBCC administration, faculty and Associated Students of LBCC. Editorials, columns, letters and cartoons reflect the opinions of the authors.

Editor-in-Chief: Sean Bassinger Managing Editor: Justeen Elliott

The Commuter commuter.linnbenton.edu

Note from the Editors:

Facts, Respect, and Tolerance

Last week, The Commuter published an article titled “Conservative Corner: The Land of Milk and Honey” in our opinion section, which reflected one writer’s stance on immigration laws and the recent tuition equity bill. Unfortunately, the article featured various inflammatory remarks and conveyed inaccurate generalizations regarding immigration in the United States.

Multiple terms and descriptions the column author used were uncalled for and highlighted common misinformation regarding immigration in this country. It is also regrettable that these

assumptions reflect what some other individuals also believe and discuss as “factual” information.

Keeping this in mind, we must always strive for facts to inform those around us.

The Commuter agrees that all community voices deserve an outlet when desired, though statements expressed within individual opinion articles do not represent views of other editorial staff members or the paper itself. It is our responsibility to inform and maintain accuracy, but also to provide a forum for open discussion as a vehicle for change.

In addition to hearing one columnist’s voice on

the matter last week, various community members contacted us to present their own accounts on these issues. Like the college itself, The Commuter promotes open discussion and encourages a welcoming and tolerant atmosphere where anyone can contribute and let their voice be heard. However, it’s essential to assure all future submissions follow a format that’s both respectable and informative to the community as a whole.

Sincerely, Your LBCC Commuter Editorial Board

News Editor: Nora Palmtag

Response to ‘Land of Milk and Honey’

A&E Editor: Ian Butcher Sports Editor: Michael Rivera Opinion Editor: Will Tatum Webmaster: Marci Sischo Page Designer: Ashley Christie Advertising Manager: Natalia Bueno Advertising Assistant: Dorine Timmons Photo Editor: William Allison Staff Photographers: Ron Borst, Michael DeChellis, MJ Kelly Adviser: Rob Priewe Cartoonist: Jason Maddox Copy Editors: Justin Bolger, Ted Holliday, Denzel Barrie Staff Writers: Dale Hummel, Alex Porter Newspaper Distribution Facilitator: Dale Hummel

Letters Welcome

The Commuter encourages readers to use its “Opinion” pages to express their views on campus, community, regional and national issues. The Commuter attempts to print all submissions received, but reserves the right to edit for grammar, length, libel, privacy concerns and taste. Opinions expressed by letter submitters do not represent the views of the Commuter staff or the College. Deliver letters to The Commuter Office, Forum 222 or at commuter@ linnbenton.edu

The Commuter @lbcommuter LBCC Commuter Web Address: commuter.linnbenton.edu

Ron Borst Staff Photographer

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ometimes, emotions dictate our writing hands, and the result is less than the truth.

In this case, a column in The Commuter misrepresents facts, and tends to “blame” immigrant status as an epidemic problem in America that is responsible for the economy and the general unhappiness of bad-luck white America. In fact, the very entitlements the column writer is speaking of, ARE one of the epidemic viruses of America. But it has little to do with immigration.

In his opening paragraph, Dale Hummel (a writer I respect and like) speaks of entitlements as freebies, such as health care and food stamps.

Okay, but I disagree with the “free” money and car reference. The reality is, many people receive welfare benefits, but rarely is the benefit a wad of cash or a new-smelling car.

Hummel ends the paragraph with the insinuation that these people are only patriotic towards their homeland. I would question that statement, and I ask where that information came from.

The idea of a “love of motherland” is not the real issue here. The real issue is that there isn’t one. America at her start was, and still is, a “melting pot” of cultures and opportunities.

In the comments on Tuition Equity and Oregon House Bill HB2787, I find that Hummel refers to two groups here, one is given “freebies” and the other “… has

been trying for years to integrate successfully,” and I would question this statement. It is vague to me, and borders on propaganda. The facts about “trying for years” is unattributed, and since I know Hummel, I would assume that he can cite those sources.

As the opinion moves on, the discrimination that comes to light is not far off, but instead of being entirely accurate, the description is misplaced.

Hummel asks, “Why should only certain people obtain special privileges” and implies that hardworking Americans pay a price for this transgression of privilege.

That price is “maybe a small chance at happiness,” according to Hummel.

I would even venture to say that white America has more “privileges” than any ethnic group. Furthermore, the most important aspect is that the white America I refer to consists of the rich and powerful. It is not I, nor is it Hummel.

The privileges that Hummel talks about are not so much the problem, the real issue is documentation.

Hummel refers to “papered” citizenship, and that is good. It establishes a credible unity among citizens, and forces citizens of all backgrounds to be accountable.

This substantially reduces crime and allows for equal representation and taxation.

The fact is, America has always had immigration. I would guess that most of the folks we all know have relatives who were immigrants. Yes,

my family WAS documented. In the late 19th century, in New York City, my own “American” history was started. But the bold reality is this: Undocumented or not, immigrants do not restrict my happiness, or any chance of it.

At this point, I would remind our readers that essentially, most of America’s population consists of immigrants or descendants of them.

Aside from the few “Indians” that survived the genocide in America, the United States is made up of the world’s peoples. Yes, most are documented, and that fact simply means they have citizenship. If America intends to be robust, and a leader in the next generation, then she must embrace her productive people.

Hummel asks the reader to imagine a truck-owning, senior citizen-helping, non-registering individual named Johnnie. He drives that truck for eons, helps the elderly, and is a good “unregistered” neighbor. The question from Hummel begs the reader, “Is Johnnie less legal?”

If Hummel is using the imagined Johnnie to either be, or represent, an illegal alien, what is the exact question here? If it is in fact, the “documentation” that is lacking, I would suggest a more enlightened solution such as documenting the so-called illegal alien. Deporting the “illegal” for simply being that is an irresponsible, “non-caring” approach to simple humanity.

Document this productive

member of America. It is that simple.

Documentation and integration are the answer. If the subject is not a criminal menace, then document them and let’s move on. The perceived “leave and come back the right way” is not a viable solution.

It is costly and, more importantly, goes against America’s deep and rich grain this country was founded on.

To imply that being “undocumented” is taking “advantage of the ‘The Land of Milk and Honey’” is contrary to what America stands for. I agree that working without paying taxes, crime, and stress on an overworked social system ARE byproducts of illegal immigration. But I would also add that these factors (or bad influences) are a small percentage of the socalled “illegals,” and are simply not an American epidemic. Document the good and productive; deport felonious criminals.

White folks in Linn County abuse the undocumented, law-breaking, illegal alien as well. A local painting contractor was recently fined by the Oregon State Contractors Board for using a large number of undocumented Hispanic laborers.

The fact here is that no matter what color one’s skin might be, the nature of power is to use it and abuse it.

To solve issues regarding American immigration, documentation will provide sustainable American communities with diverse tools to make the 21st century alive with varied voices of different ethnic sounds—words we can all live by.

What do you think?

Both letters to the editor and guest columns are welcome.

Submit your thoughts to commuter@linnbenton.edu

Phone: 541- 917-4451, 4452 or 4453 Address: 6500 SW Pacific Blvd.

Albany, OR 97321

The Commuter attempts to print all letters received, although we reserve the right to edit for grammar and length. Letters that raise libel, poor taste or privacy concerns will not be printed.

The Commuter commuter.linnbenton.edu

Letters to the Editor

Page 3 Wednesday, April 17, 2013

From The Commuter Mailbox

Re: ‘Land of Milk and Honey’ Dear Editor: Dale, we have only met twice before. Our interactions have been fairly pleasant in fact. Moreover, in the spirit of inclusivity and diversity, the Diversity Achievement Center is hosting a screening of a Tea Party movie you are organizing on Monday, April 15, and I am happy to offer you the space. Bienvenido. In addition to that relationship, I also read your column fairly regularly in order to keep myself informed of varying perspectives.

By reading your column, it is very clear you champion all causes Tea Party. However, after reading your last piece, I feel compelled to write in and offer you some information. I do this because frankly, I am concerned with the tenor of what you are trying to say, especially since you are so adamant that Tea Partiers are so misunderstood.

Moreover, by The Commuter’s Editorial Staff opting for an apparent laissez faire approach to your musings in your column, and more specifically how infrequently it challenges your writings in its public forum or your rationale for questions like “why should certain people obtain special privileges while others have to work hard …” I feel it is my responsibility as an educator and enthusiast of good taste to push back a bit. With all due respect, my critique is intended to be developmental in scope.

One: Understand, I am a fervent protector of the freedom of the press and free speech, but remember, Dale; with those freedoms comes a responsibility, a responsibility to the facts, your readership and not assumptions—even in opinion pieces like yours.

Two, Dale, your columns—this one in particular— reads like a tirade. My critique of your thesis in your latest effort is that you essentially scapegoated, perpetuated inaccurate facts and go for the lowest common denominator related to the highly-charged debate on immigration: Demonization. As an opinion writer, I challenge you to be more creative in espousing your

viewpoints, rather than relying on old clichés that really only appeal to the most reptilian and primal of instincts of Tea Party politics.

Three, now for the facts: undocumented immigrants DO NOT legally qualify for free health care.

DO NOT legally qualify for “food stamps …”

DO NOT legally qualify for “free money …”

DO NOT legally qualify for a “free car …”

And most certainly DO NOT qualify for a “free house.”

Legally, “illegal” immigrants—the ones I know (and your readers know) you were referring to—you know, all those “illegal” immigrants you so eloquently described as those that “climb over a fence or crawl through a ditch”—at the US-Canadian border. Yeah, those “illegal” immigrants—by law or by administrative policy throughout the U.S.—CANNOT legally access the social programs you listed and therefore, for all intent and purposes have no access to them. And by the way, Dale, please tell me where the “FREE MONEY” or the “FREE CARS” are given out? Enlighten me because I know of a lot of LBCC students—legal or otherwise—that could use the cash to pay for school expenses and a vehicle to be able to get to work.

I watched a movie the other day, Dale, called “Be Cool.” Perhaps you’ve seen it? I reference this movie since your tirade reminded me of how Sin LaSalle (played by Cedric The Entertainer) had to check his opposite on his bias. With apologies to the original dialogue, I amended his comments to fit your issues related to “illegal” immigration: How is it that you can show such contempt for a person’s immigration status when you know immigrants have influenced nearly every facet of American life? From the food, to the sense of family values, immigrants enrich our country’s very existence, all the while contributing to the gross national product through achievements in all aspects of working America: be it in agriculture by

Letter to the Editor of The Commuter: After reading Dale Hummel’s column “The Land of Milk and Honey,” I’m appalled that The Commuter would provide a space for such a bigoted, unresearched article.

Mr. Hummel relies heavily on rhetoric and false stereotypes to try and paint a picture of undocumented immigrants as lazy and unpatriotic freeloaders. He lobbies to continue to use the term “illegal” to brand a group of people. If he had done a shred of research he would know a study done by the Institute for Taxation and Economic Policy showed undocumented workers payed $11.2 billion in taxes in 2010.

He would know that the Social Security Administration estimates that in 2005, the last year for which figures are available, about $9 billion in taxes were paid into Social Security. Undocumented workers make up a big percentage of the labor force in the United States, especially in agricultural, construction, and cleaning jobs.

They are often times underpaid and invisible. In short, it is a reality that undocumented immigrants are an integral part of our economy and identity as a nation. To dehumanize them by calling them “illegal” and insinuating that they are all getting free handouts is ignorant at best. They deserve our respect as human beings. Mr. Hummel says that undocumented immigrants should “leave and come back the right way.”

Well, Mr. Hummel, have you even read the bill? It proposes equitable tuition for residents of Oregon and a path to citizenship. These are residents of Oregon who have been here for three years or more and who came to the United States as children unable to understand the politics of documentation. You’re worried about the small percentage of undocumented citizens on Welfare?

Connect the dots, Mr. Hummel. HB 2787 will empower undocumented children to be productive, educated members of our society. This is the right way to citizenship.

Brian Keady

Foreign Language Department Chair

harvesting the food in your mouth, to raising America’s children, or by building or remodeling America’s homes.

It is these conceits that comfort me when I am faced with the poorly informed and the intolerant, who are fearful of a changing America. People who desecrate things they don’t understand when the truth is – people that scapegoat undocumented immigrants should say ‘Gracias’ and go on about their way.

My hope for you, Dale, is that you can grow to be capable of that and say “Thank You” rather than demonize people who have little voice and no power to defend themselves against mean-spirited policies and ugly rhetoric. And please know that if you need a mentor to guide you as America changes, I am right next door from The Commuter’s newsroom. My door is always open.

Finally, these questions are directed to The Commuter Editorial Staff: Just what does your publication stand for? What is it that you are attempting to strive for? Is it balance? Is it to inform? Or are you offering a platform to educate? Is The Commuter a watchdog? Or is it a purveyor of propaganda? Or is it an instrument to provoke and scapegoat people?

I urge you and the staff to grapple with these questions—and above all else, please learn from the ensuing dialogue. As a consumer of your publication, I am struggling to identify your intent, because the impact of many of the words that are penned on the opinion page leaves me guessing and at a loss.

The great thing about college is that it is a place where there is a free exchange of ideas. I would just like to see more ideas exchanged other than the ones Dale Hummel spews every week.

Letter to the Editor: The United States is indeed a wondrous country – where else does a taxpayer-supported institution of higher learning provide a platform for the expression of divisive shame-mongering based on a very narrow view of human migration history and obvious ignorance of the fluidity of law in our culture? Our country’s honorable experiment in freedom is a mere 237 years old, a blink in the span of human migration history.

Things have not always been as they are now, and to adopt an absolutist position that divides us into “us” and “them” ignores the glaring reality that we are all descendents of many generations of migrating humans, beginning in Africa, and always moving to better ground.

Borders are ephemeral; our humanity is not.

We are all made richer by inclusion, not division. A larger perspective on the economic considerations raised by Mr. Hummel will also reveal the absurdity of begrudging food, health care, and driver’s licenses to aspiring Americans: We spend far more tax money in subsidies to agriculture, the petroleum industry, corporate exemptions, and direct foreign aid to other countries.

Right now, almost seven out of 10 Americans support a path to citizenship for undocumented workers, a trend that greatly reflects the fluidity of cultural values. We are changing, as a nation and as a culture. We always have, and hopefully always will.

Attitudes, values and laws are changing as Americans get to know immigrants and discover

Sincerely,

Javier Cervantes

Director of the Office of Diversity and Community Engagement

this shared humanity. There really is no “other,” only people who you do not yet know. This really is a wondrous country.

Please note, from the “Oregon Center for Public Policy” January 25, 2012: “Public debate about undocumented workers in Oregon should be informed by an understanding of the significant contributions these workers make to Oregon’s economy—not just as workers and consumers, but also as taxpayers. A conservative estimate of how much undocumented workers contribute annually to Oregon’s tax base and to the federal Social Security and Medicare systems puts that figure at $154 million to $309 million.

Additionally, taxes paid by Oregon employers in the name of undocumented workers total $121 million to $243 million annually.

“Despite their tax payments, undocumented workers do not qualify for many public services. For example, they are ineligible for the Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) generally, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (food stamps), temporary cash assistance, federal Social Security and Medicare, and state Unemployment Insurance benefits. They may receive some emergency services, such as medical coverage for pregnant women or emergency cash assistance for parents and pregnant women who are victims of domestic violence.”

Analee Fuentes Art Instructor

Opinion

Page 4 Wednesday, April 17, 2013

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Sins of the GOP

Dale Hummel Staff Writer

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here was a time when being a part of the Grand Old Party (Republican Party) was respectable. After all, it was the party of Lincoln. This was the man who led the country through a bloody civil war and helped to end slavery by signing the Emancipation Proclamation.

So what the heck has happened to the Republican Party to allow such dismal failures within the last five to eight years? What happened to the party that had the leadership, foresight and the will bring the country together and set us on the path of healing? No matter what your party affiliation is or if you don’t care about either one, there are several reasons why a political group can fail its constituents.

Here are some of the sins the Republican Party has committed (in my most humble opinion) to attract more independent and conservative voters.

The party has done too little to attract minority members and candidates into the party. It is common knowledge that many people think of the Republicans to be the party of the “rich, old, white guys,” even though there are many who are not. The party needs to attract a more diverse constituency in their ranks. Sarah Palin, Herman Cain and Marco Rubio aren’t enough. Moreover, the party did not give them the political and media support they needed to survive in the cut-throat political world and they suffered for it.

Next, the GOP must do more to attract the youth vote. Most young people get their information from certain cable TV shows and the Internet.

The party needs to invest heavily into young people and prove to them that the next generations of Republicans aren’t just bunch of out-of-touch, rich, white guys. There are some smart, young people in the ranks of the Republican Party and the old guys need to step aside and let the young people get some of the spotlight and show a fresher side of the party.

One big sin most politicians commit is the act of being one. Politics breeds corruption and feeds on power. The job of being a legislator or congressman was meant to be a part-time gig and not a lifelong activity.

Unfortunately, too many legislators consider this kind of work as “job security” and may have never worked other positions. Simply put, they are out of touch with Americans.

One of the biggest issues the Republicans have been facing for a while is not using the internet and social media to its fullest potential. For example, when tweets reading “four more years” were sent after Obama realized he had won his second term. Republicans need to embrace the internet in the same way and use it to their advantage. According to The Telegraph online, John McCain was persecuted for not sending emails during the 2008 election, which caused people to question his communication abilities as a leader.

John Boehner, John McCain and Lisa Murkowski are a few of the people who changed when they got to Washington. Too many people who have good conservative values go to Washington and get seduced by the money, power, and fame, turning into pushovers and support anything that they think will make them look good to the power in the oval office and the will of a biased media group.

When the Republican Party wakes up and realizes what they are doing is not the will of the people, Lincoln, Reagan, and the people who put them into office, we may have a Republican Party with conservative values worthy of combating a very strong opposition.

The Commuter commuter.linnbenton.edu

Politics and Discussion Without Deliberation

Will Tatum Opinion Editor

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xcepting the shrill talking heads, paid to carry water and vomit up political diatribes on cable news and overpaid columnists spilling ink in the halls of once venerable institutions, actual discourse between citizens has all but ceased and voter participation has remained at dangerously low levels. Over the last two decades, American political dialogue has come to a near standstill, in no small part because of the vitriolic relationship between the two parties.

The pajama-clad bloggers, supposedly our saviors and disintermediators of the political punditry class if you listened to the techpress back in 2007, have instead taken the fight to the third and fourth rails of the internet, offering no hope that the fractious nature of political discourse was any closer to changing.

The blogosphere divided itself into personal fiefdoms and tribes just as quickly as the traditional press did.

Coupled with the vitriol enabled by anonymous communication, past resentments have been revived and various -isms and bigotries have found new ground upon which to fester and grow. All of this has served to limit the actual influence of the virtual space on the political space.

The fact that Congress can’t seem to get its act together or that the president was four months late in preparing his budget comes as no surprise, without an actual dialogue the nation has no unified voice to speak out against these absurdities.

Both major political parties blaming each other and vehemently stating that everything would be fine if they had their way represents basic failed state, pre-collapse politics.

Sadly, what both parties fail to realize is that they are both right and both wrong. Both parties have poisoned the well of political discourse in this country. All too often, Democrats reduce their arguments to “Republicans are evil, so support my side.” Alan Grayson perfectly illustrated this in the health care debates of 2011 when he said that the Republican plan was, “Don’t get sick, and if you do, die quickly.”

Instead of giving concrete reasons why he opposes privatizing the health care system, he reduced himself to a primate flinging metaphorical poo across the hall. This doesn’t move the discussion forward, but it does give the media something to talk about. It doesn’t even clearly articulate something; it poisons the well and prevents future discussion.

Beyond now standard, congressional polemics and hyperbole, the Democratic party engages in hypocrisy

matched only by similar religious objections to equality for homosexuality.

One would think that the party that tried to coop the 99 Percent and Occupy movements would eschew financing and political contributions from such institutions as BP, GE, Exxon, JP Morgan, Chase Bank, Bank of America, or Goldman Sachs. Yet collectively, they have accepted tens of millions of dollars in contributions from these companies. Meanwhile, they’re fanning the media firestorm over corporate business profits. It is simply hypocritical of Democrats to hate them in public, but love their money in private Topping off vitriol, poisoning the well of political discourse, and hypocrisy are the following three things that Democrats have done that are simply beyond the pale. One piece of legislation, the Digital Millenium Copyright Act, turned owning electronic hardware into a lease agreement and made it possible, through the 1984 Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, to receive a jail sentence for violating the terms of service of a product you bought (leased) that exceeded the sentence for raping a classmate.

If you want to know why you can’t unlock your phone without the Librarian of Congress okaying it, that’s why.

As bad as that is, it is nothing to the repealing of Glass Stegal in 1999 that was directly related to the need for bailouts less than 10 years later. By acquiescing to Bill Clinton and the DLC’s new corporate friendly liberalism through deregulation, the Democrats spread the seeds that the Republicans tilled, which brought the global economy to a grinding halt in 2007. To be sure, there were a variety of mechanisms that intensified the crash, but at its heart, depositor banks gambling with consumer pensions and savings made the whole ponzi scheme of collateralized debt obligations possible.

But it is the hail to the chief, follow the leader mentality of Democrats, in support of Obama’s continuation of whistleblower persecution and expansion of the Drone War that is simply unforgivable. Three American citizens, one of them a minor and one of them a journalist, have been summarily executed without due process, without Judicial approval, and without legal precedent all for their political beliefs.

That this happened without Congressional Democrats (Bernie Sanders doesn’t count; he’s like a token minority in an all white film) raising a fuss is testament to how the priorities of the Democratic Party have changed.

No longer the party of liberal values like hard work and community involvement, the Democratic Party has become an illiberal institution more interested in keeping itself in power and serving its corporate masters than serving its citizens.

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Student Selected for Symposium LBCC News Service

Kelly Solberg, a radiologic technology student at Linn-Benton Community College, has been selected to participate in the American Society of Radiologic Technologists 2013 Student Leadership Development Program.

Solberg, a Eugene resident, was one of 61 students chosen from more than 130 entries submitted by radiologic science students from around the country.

She is in her second year in the LBCC Diagnostic Imaging program.

Solberg will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the ASRT Educational Symposium and Annual Governance and House of Delegates Meeting, June 13-16, in Albuquerque, N.M. In addition, Solberg will attend two educational courses specifically designed for students and be assigned a professional mentor during the House of Delegates meeting.

“The Student Leadership Development Program gives medical imaging and radiation therapy students the opportunity to experience firsthand how the ASRT governance process works,” said ASRT President Donna L. Thaler Long, M.S.M., R.T.(R)(M)(QM), FASRT. “While in Albuquerque, students will participate in educational activities, network with radiology leaders and learn from seasoned radiologic technologists. It’s a great way for students to get involved early and jumpstart their careers.”

The ASRT represents 150,000 members who perform medical imaging procedures or plan and deliver radiation therapy treatments. The Society also provides radiologic technology students with the tools, services and support they need to prepare for careers in medical imaging and radiation therapy.

For more information about the ASRT and opportunities for radiologic science students, visit www.asrt.org/students.

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LBCC News Service

Bruce Clemetsen, vice president of Student Services at Linn-Benton Community College, received the “Distinguished College Administrator” award from the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society at its international convention held in San Jose April 4.

Clemetsen was one of only 25 community college leaders to

receive the award.

“We felt it was important to recognize Dr. Clemetsen because of his mentorship and support of PTK students on campus,” said Michelle Hoopiiaina, president of the LBCC PTK chapter, which nominated Clemetsen for the award.

On the national level, the award recognized Clemetsen’s work around student completion and his efforts to work with honor roll students as peer mentors, part of a

national movement by PTK toward student completion.

The Distinguished Administrator award is given to community college administrators (vice presidents, deans, etc.) based on outstanding support provided to Phi Theta Kappa over the years.

Phi Theta Kappa is a two-year college honor society with more than 1,250 chapters across the United States and worldwide serving approximately one million members.

School Receives Drive Oregon Grant LBCC News Service

Linn-Benton Community College received a $50,000 grant from Drive Oregon, part of a matching grant program designed to accelerate the growth of Oregon’s electric vehicle industry.

The grant will support the purchase of an advanced dynamometer for LBCC’s new Advanced Transportation Technology Center located in Lebanon. The grant is part of six projects totaling $179,926 from Drive Oregon.

John McArdle, LBCC Foundation development director, says the college values the connections it is

making in Oregon’s growing electric vehicle industry.

“This grant will help us meet the growing demand for people who are qualified to develop and maintain electric vehicles and other advanced transportation equipment,” said McArdle.

Lester Erlston, CEO of KersTech in Beaverton, noted that his company plans to work in partnership with LBCC to conduct dynamometer testing of its compound motor.

Drive Oregon is a non-profit organization working to develop hybrid and electric vehicles and energy storage technologies, funded in part by the Oregon State Lottery through Business Oregon.

Earn your degree in Bend, Oregon Tina Schnell Student | Energy Systems Engineering

There’s yet another reason to get your degree at Oregon State University’s growing branch campus.

OSU was named a Fiske Best Buy School. Now you can earn your degree in Bend from Oregon’s leading public research university and know you’re getting excellent value.

Come learn about our small classes, field studies, research projects and study abroad opportunities. And see how you can transfer your community college credit into one of 16 majors, and 25 options and minors. You can reach your goals in Central Oregon.

MAY 1 - Fall term priority transfer application deadline JUNE 1 - Summer term application deadline

Design Assistant: Interest in graphic design and page layout. Help put the paper together.

Applications available in The Commuter office (F-222).

Call (541) 917-4451 for more info.

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Clemetsen Wins PTK Award

Here are some of the positions we have open: Features/News Writers: Those interested in reporting a wide variety of topics, covering campus, local, national and world news. Some experience with journalism preferred, but not necessary.

Page 5

OSUcascades.edu

facebook.com/osucascades

Campus News

Page 6 Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Michael DeChellis

Career Fair

The Commuter commuter.linnbenton.edu

Tejo Pack

LBCC’s mascot Rocky the Roadrunner

The History of

Clockwise from top: Students gather in the gym for the Career Fair on April 11. A student checks out the Corvallis Police Dept. table. Rocky the Roadrunner shows his support.

Rocky

William Allison

See more photos online at: commuter.linnbenton.edu

Photo Editor

Gwen Cluskey

Tejo Pack

The need is constant.

The gratification is instant.

Give Blood.

BLOOD DRIVE

Fireside Room (Next to the Commons Cafeteria)

Tuesday, April 23, 9:00 am - 3 pm Wednesday, April 24, 9:00 am - 3 pm Sign up online: www.redcrossblood.org (Sponsor code: LBCC) or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. Some restrictions may apply.

Identification is required.

Rocky the Roadrunner: He’s more than just a giant bird, he’s the college’s mascot. For several decades now, the roadrunner has been our mascot. However, he only received his name about five years ago. Though many people know he’s the mascot, few know his history. Most students aren’t even sure where the roadrunner came from.

“I can’t think of any reason other than someone being a ‘Looney Tunes’ fan,” said dental assisting student Jenny Sieber. “Or something really cheesy like ‘the school sets students on the fast track to learning,’ so they chose the roadrunner, because they’re fast.”

According to Joe Sherlock of LBCC’s marketing, it all started in the ’60s. “The college first started in a series of rented spaces all over the two counties, before a campus was built,” Sherlock said. This caused people to have to drive quite a bit to get to their classes. It was because of this that the students were referred to as roadrunners and later became the mascot.

Sherlock went on to say that there are schedules as far back as 1971 featuring the “Roadrunner and Coyote” roadrunner most people think of. Later, they moved away from this image, going for an image closer to the design used today, just silhouetted and viewed from the side. During the 1990s, a cartoon design was introduced, which lead to the current image used.

Over time, LBCC’s Student Leadership Council became the bearers of the costume, which has also gone through several changes over the years. It was because of the marketing department, along with SLC, that Rocky received a name.

About five years ago, someone in marketing inquired as to whether the mascot had a name, as Benny Beaver and many other mascots did. SLC and the athletics department were asked, and neither knew of a name. It was suggested that it be named Rocky Roadrunner, which rolls off the tongue. Though it was never officially declared, it’s been accepted as the name throughout the past few years.

Today, Rocky has become quite popular, showing up at many events around campus. He even has his own Twitter account so students can check him out there or keep an eye out around campus.

Theater Preview: The Underpants

Sponsored by the Student Leadership Council

Persons having questions about or requests for special needs and accommodations should contact the Disability Coordinator at Linn-Benton Community College, RCH105, 6500 Pacific Blvd. SW, Albany, OR 97321. Phone 541-917-4690 or via Oregon Telecommunications Relay TTD at 1-800-735-2900 or 1-800-735-1232. Contact should be made 72 hours or more in advance of the event.

LBCC is an equal opportunity employer & educator.

This spring, LBCC’s theater department will perform Steve Martin’s “The Underpants,” an adaptaion of the the German comedy “Die Hose.” Asia Lederer plays Louise and Abe Cusick plays Versati.

Heather Hutchman

Campus News

The Commuter commuter.linnbenton.edu

Page 7 Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Welding Club Joins Sustainability Fair Caitlyn May Contributing Writer

Their hands may be covered in black welding soot, but their minds are focused on being green.

LBCC’s ITS Welding Club will be taking part in the third annual Earth Day Sustainability Fair held on April 22 in The Courtyard. Between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., students and residents can check out a bundle of booths that will include various ideas on how to live a greener life.

According to information for the event, the Sustainability Fair will be hosting information on solar energy, alternative fuel cell technology, bike transportation tips, and college sustainability efforts, including campus composting and recycling, which will include sneaker recycling.

In the middle of the action, the ITS Club will be manning a table to display and sell its wares. “A lot of the stuff that we make is made from scratch. We use stuff from the shop that nobody else is going to use,” Dean Hodge, the self-appointed spokesperson, explained. He noted the club’s game plan, stating, “Recently we made a bell from an oxygen canister. We attempt to sell these things to anyone who wants them, people from town or campus or Salem. They contact us and let us know what they want, and we ship it out to them.”

In designing their projects, members of the club look to what they have available first. The majority of projects, according to Hodge, are made from metal that is leftover from other designs with the club shying away from purchasing new metal unless absolutely necessary. President James Nordahl said that the group takes it a step further when it comes to recycling, “The second-year class made bridges as a project. We tore those down, recycled them, and used the metal to make bikes.”

Students to take Action Against Budget Cuts Nora Palmtag News Editor

Welding student Jacob Hernandez hard at work in the welding shop on campus.

Sustainability Fair When: Mon. April 22 Time: 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Where: Courtyard

The funds garnered from the sales of the club’s projects are pooled to help pay for certification tests. Currently, students in the welding program are gearing up for their exams

with Hodge saying, “There are four different certification tests we’re taking right now. The certification of a welder will help us out on our résumés in the real world. They’ll know that we know how to do the welds and use the equipment.”

While the bell will be the star attraction of Monday’s fair, the ITS Club will also have clocks, frogs, and other projects on display. “Making something isn’t enough,” Hodge said.

Anna Houston

“We have to show people that we have it, that we can make a variation of it, and we can get it to the people that want it.”

The LBCC Sustainability Fair will be held in The Courtyard on April 22, and will feature the following local companies and initiatives: Pacific Power’s Blue Sky Renewable Energy Program, Republic Services, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Ten Rivers Food Web.

Students Hangin’ Out

Finally, students have a chance to miss school with the consent of school faculty and administration.

On Thursday, April 25, buses will be going to Salem for a rally at the Oregon Capitol to, hopefully, get the funds we need for the coming fiscal cycle of 2013-2015.

“Community colleges are slated now to receive only $395 million” according to Eric Noll, Student Leadership Council (SLC) legislative affairs director. “With more than a 60 percent chance of getting $450 million, but at least $510 million is needed for the 2013-2015 community college support fund.”

Noll stated, “If the amount of $510 million is not made available, it would lead to more cuts across the board and tuition increase. The more participation at the rally, the more our possibility of success in raising this level of commitment to our educational fund.”

Many of the school’s faculty and administration support this endeavor, and students should notify instructors if they need to be excused from class.

On the bus, students will be given a slip showing they attended the rally to provide instructors. This is considered an academic participation and some instructors are even giving extra credit for your attendance.

Students planning to attend the rally are asked to register at goo.gl/H3auj

by April 19 to create an accurate list of who will be attending.

“Thank you for filling out an interest card with the LBCC Student Leadership Council and showing interest in coming to the Rally in Salem on April 25. A bus will leave Takena Hall at 11 a.m. and return at 3:30 p.m.,” according to the information provided.

Transportation is FREE and snacks will be provided.

If you have any questions, contact Noll at 503-302-0099 or eric.m.noll@ gmail.com.

School Funding Rally Rally at the Ore.

Capitol to get

more funding When: April 25 Time: Buses leave LBCC

at 11 a.m. and

return at 3:30 p.m.

Where: Meet in front of

Takena Hall Register: Online at

goo.gl/H3auj

by April 19 What:

Cooper Pawson

Arboriculture students Maia Kazaks (left) and Lia Clark at a Tree Climbing Practicum while instructor Nick Fowler watches from the ground. See more photos at cooperpawson.blogspot.com.

$$$$$$

Sports

Page 8 Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Women’s Basketball on the Chopping Block Sarah Shye Contributing Writer

This is a big turning point in LBCC history. The women’s basketball program that has been present here for many years was cut from the budget.

It was announced on Wednesday, March 13 that LBCC would no longer have a women’s basketball program. The program was cut due to a “3 million dollar deficit college wide,” said Athletic Director Randy Falk. He made it clear he was very adamant about keeping all sports here at LBCC. “We understand a difficult decision had to be made,” said Falk.

Monica Kuntz says she will really miss the game of basketball. “I will also really miss the team chemistry and spending a lot of time together.”

Players were all very upset when the decision was made. After an explanation from their coach, Teresa Guerra, the team now has a better understanding of why the decision was made.

Guerra has coached the team at LBCC for five years. She said she will miss helping these women get to the next level of basketball.

“I will miss getting to know them

The Commuter commuter.linnbenton.edu

Roadrunner Baseball Continues Running Over Opposition Ron Borst Staff Photographer

The Linn-Benton Roadrunner baseball team is on a mid-season tear, shredding opposing teams with remarkable precision. After Thursday’s sweep of Southwest Oregon Community College(SWOCC), the Roadrunners are 15-5. A 6-game win streak is proof this very good club is starting to “dial it in.”

In Game 1 vs. SWOCC, Jordan Farley went 5 innings for the win, and as usual, the LBCC bullpen was fabulous.

Brady Thomas was superb in middle relief and Christian Morrison pitched a scoreless 9th to collect the save.

Trevor Nix had two hits with two runs scored and Seth

Brown was a monster, driving in two runs on three hits while scoring one.

In Game 2, LBCC erupted for a 10-1 win. Nix again had two hits while scoring two runs. Logan Henry had two hits and scored three runs.

Austin Hamilton went six innings for the win and relief was solid, with Brady Williams throwing a perfect 7th inning and getting the save.

It’s a busy week for the Roadrunners. On Tuesday(16th), the team plays two at Chemeketa. The boys return home for a Thursday date with Linfield, at 1pm at LBCC on April 18th.

Come out to the ballpark and support the LBCC Roadrunners as they continue their quest for a playoff run.

Civil War at the Ball Park Michael DeChellis

Freshman guard Samantha Reynolds goes up for a shot in a game during the 2012-13 season.

and just miss all of their personalities in general,” said Guerra.

Guerra said that it will take several years to bring a women’s basketball team back due to budget cuts.

University of Oregon Ducks defeated the Oregon State Beavers at the Civil War game on April 9 with a score of 6-3. Ducks’ Sophomore Jordan Spencer delivers the pitch while Beavers’ Andy Peterson leads off.

Shuo Xu

Are You Ready To Look For A Job?

Resume and Cover Letters Wednesday, April 24th, 11-12 pm-RCH 116 Friday, May 10th -2 pm-RCH 116 Monday, May 13th, 12-1 pm-RCH 116

Diversity in the Workplace Tuesday, April 23rd, 12-1 pm-DAC

How to Land the Job Thursday, April 25th, 12-1 pm-RCH 116

Pregnant?

Take control.

Scan to schedule a confidential appointment and take control of your unplanned pregnancy.

Winning Ways Monday, May 20th, 12-1 pm RCH 116

Effective Workplace Communication Thursday, May 30th, 12-1pm RCH 116

The Commuter is

EVERYWHERE! Keep up to date on all the latest news.

The Commuter @lbcommuter

867 NW 23rd St, Corvallis

1800 16th Ave SE, Albany

541.758.3662

541.924.0160

LBCC Commuter

Community News

The Commuter commuter.linnbenton.edu

Fire Breaks Out at ATI Wah Chang William Allison

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

First Alternative Co-op

Earth Day 2013 Monday, April 22

Photo Editor

A first-alarm fire was reported at ATI Wah Chang at 1600 Old Salem Rd. NE shortly after 2 p.m. According to a sheriff ’s office report, via the Albany Democrat-Herald, some barrels of zirconium had caught on fire and Building 123 of Wah Chang was starting to catch fire. The Commuter was on the scene, and while there were no visible flames, a significant amount of white smoke was exiting through the roof.

Albany firefighters arrived and assessed the situation. Firefighters quickly staged efforts to suppress the fire, but due to the contents of the fire, which cannot be doused with water, they had to either let the fire burn itself out, or use special chemical fire extinguishers and sand to contain it. Shortly after assessing the situation, they called for mutual aid from

Page 9

10% off all Local 6 products 10% off all grower direct produce Lots of local vendor demos and more (see our website)

Celebrate Earth Day the Co-op way!

SOUTH CORVALLIS NORTH CORVALLIS 1007 SE 3rd St 2855 NW Grant (at 29th)

William Allison

(541)753-3115 (541)452-3115

Fire trucks arrive at ATI Wah Chang to extingish ďŹ re.

Jefferson and Lebanon Fire Departments, upgrading the call to a secondalarm working fire.

As of 4:22 p.m., the fire department stopped their 30 minute time checks, indicating that the fire was under control and/or extinguished. There were no injuries and the building was safely

evacuated prior to the arrival of the fire department. A total of 37 firefighters assisted on scene including some from Albany, Lebanon, and Jefferson.

Corvallis Fire Department stepped up to assist AFD in manning the city’s stations. AFD was on scene for about five hours in total.

Opinion:

Street Photography in America

Ron Borst

Sta Photographer

I

hadn’t yet got to the work zone that I could clearly see from blocks away. The orange cones and huge boomtruck gave the scene away, except for the yelling that was directed at me.

I was 50 feet from the first orange boundary cone when I first heard the shout. “Hey! You with the paper?� He was standing on the opposite side of the street, wearing the standard safety-yellow visibility vest, and waving the “SLOW� part of the sign.

I just smiled and stopped at the edge of the work-zone.

I snapped a few photos and then heard another yell. Same question. I shot a few more frames and looked both ways as I crossed the street. “Nah, no newspaper reporter here,� I told him. “What you take pictures for?� He stared at me, waiting for me to answer. “For anybody who wants to buy them,� I said, moving to the sidewalk. “That’s weird,� he said. “Liberal,� he added. It was not a compliment.

Instead of debating those points, I moved east, directly across from the work-zone. I took some photos from the sidewalk, and then headed towards the cones to get a better shot. From the edge of the work-zone, I snapped some photos of the two guys that were working, one up in the tree and the other on the ground. After that, I headed out, and as I left, I stopped on the eastern edge of the work-zone and shot a few more frames. To get a better angle on the last few frames, I stepped a foot inside the boundary, but still far from the work area.

The flagger was furious, yelling “Get the hell out of the work area!�

I admit, I was inside the cones, stretching the rules, but the cone was 50 feet from the actual work area, so I was not too concerned, especially since the flagger ignored his traffic while bothering me. Some will say that I had no right in this case, but I would argue that the flagger ignored his core function from the start. The initial question, and its reference to a newspaper, is the first clue to the flagger’s lack of discipline.

He should have engaged me only for safety reasons.

Instead, he created a hazard for drivers, by waving and yelling. One driver thought he waved them through into one-way traffic.

Anybody who says it is a pedestrian or a photographer at fault, simply does not understand the role of the flagger.

A simple pedestrian should in no way be able to hinder a flagger’s work performance.

In another incident, an LBCC student threatened to break my camera after I took photos of a group during a fire drill.

I snapped a few standard shots of “campus life� and proceeded to move on. As I moved, the unmistakable middle fingers of a student caught my eye. “Yeah!� he said. “What’s up, man?� I replied.

He said something inaudible, and I just smiled. “Whatever,� I said. “Next time, I break your camera,� he said.

As he approached, he said “You didn’t ask to take my photo. Do you think that is right?� “You are in a public space at a publicly funded school,� I replied.

At this point, the argument became a pissing match of perceived rights. I offered my blog as a reference for street photography and some enlightenment. After seemingly becoming frustrated at the argument loss, he referred to me as a “faggot� and stormed off.

But, then the real comedy started. This youngster tried to file a complaint and even lied to LBCC Security about facts involving the incident. The complainer was referred to the LBCC Student Handbook and LBCC Student Services.

Here is the social lesson in all of this: LBCC Security, at first, backed the young man. During the initial complaint, I arrived and listened. As the complainer told his story, Bruce Thompson of LBCC Security scolded me and said, “You WILL NOT take photos of students.�

I immediately asked for the LBCC Journalism Adviser and LBCC Administration to join our meeting. LBCC Security has been extremely biased in the past, and in this case, the office crossed the line between integrity and arbitrary power. LBCC Administration did, in fact, support my position. The scene was simply a fire drill and the 50 or so students that had gathered where they were supposed to: They had gone to the “Assembly Point.�

It is plausible that maybe this kid was having a bad day.

I know I hate being judged on my worst day, and if this is so, then I can say, “Let’s move on.� But there is no excuse for a member of LBCC Security to be so completely lost or biased about the Bill Of Rights. The First Amendment is pretty specific about my rights as a citizen and a photographer.

The history of street photography is long and distinguished. It includes such names as Henri CartierBresson and Robert Frank. Using cameras from the old rangefinders to today’s high tech digital models, amateurs, professionals, and everyone in between practice street photography. It is continued today by the likes of Americans Eric Kim, Adam Lerner, and Chase Jarvis.

The freedoms that we all enjoy also extend to photographers, so that we may continue to enjoy their art and their “documentation� of humanity in all of its conditions and situations. It is unfathomable to think that anyone in America would restrict that expression.

The Commuter Advertising Department • Reach a Wide Audience • Affordable Rates • Print & Online Ad Options

Contact Commuter Ads at 541-917-4452 commuterads@linnbenton.edu

Bulletin Board

Page 10 Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Call for Performers:

Play In a Day

LBCC News Service

Linn-Benton Community College and the Majestic Theater are calling for playwrights, actors and directors to participate in a 24-hour, ten-minute, Play-ina-Day to be performed Saturday, May 25 at 7:30 p.m. at the Majestic.

Playwrights, directors and actors will write, rehearse and perform six original plays created and rehearsed within a day. This fast-paced event provides opportunities to work with and meet lots of people.

Playwrights and directors who wish to participate must submit a sample of his/her work or resume by May 15 to Dan Stone, LBCC theater director, 6500 Pacific Blvd. SW, Albany, 97321, or to the LBCC Russell Tripp Performance Center Box Office, Takena Hall, Albany campus.

Interested participants must fill out an application form found on the Ten Minute Play in a Day Facebook page at facebook.com/events/287454041387744/ Registration fee is $20.

For more information, contact LBCC Theater Director Dan Stone at 541917-4566.

Benefit Dinner to Help Local Food Access Program Dan Blaustein-Rejto Ten Rivers Food

M

MONS FAR

E

T H E CO

Ten Rivers Food Web and Chef Matt Bennett of Sybaris Bistro invites the public to take a trip down south and celebrate Cinco de Mayo at a Mexican meal fundraiser.

The event will benefit the “That’s My Farmer SNAP” program at the Albany Farmers’ Market. It will take place on Cinco de Mayo, Sunday, May 5, at Commons Cafeteria at Linn-Benton Community College in Albany.

VIP tickets are $59 and include a pre-dinner reception beginning at 5 p.m. The reception includes a hosted bar, appetizers, live music, door prizes, a silent auction and the three-course dinner with special table service.

Regular tickets for the three-course

dinner are only $29. Doors open at 6 p.m for the dinner, live music, and silent auction. Auction and prize items include one week at Farm Experience Day Camp at Midway Farms as well as one night at River Bend Resort. Wine and beer will be available for purchase and the menu will include a vegetarian option.

That’s My Farmer SNAP (TMF SNAP) is a flagship program of Ten Rivers Food Web. Its aim is to increase low-income access to healthy food from local farmers.

Tickets may only be purchased in advance. They are available online at AlbanySNAP13-pr.eventbrite.com and in person at Sybaris Bistro.

For more information contact Dan Blaustein-Rejto at dan@tenriversfoodweb.org or (541)224-7641.

MENU FOR THE WEEK OF:

4/17-4/23

Wednesday

4/17

Scholarship Workshop Noon – 1 p.m. · DAC Student Ambassadors & Financial Aid invites you to learn how to fill out scholarship applications. Get awarded free money for college! Learn what selection committees look for.

TED Talk Noon p.m. · Fireside Room Join us for the great talk by Dan Gilbert on the Surprising Science of Happiness.

Thursday

4/18

Scholarship Workshop Noon – 1 p.m. · DAC Student Ambassadors & Financial Aid invites you to learn how to fill out scholarship applications. Get awarded free money for college! Learn what selection committees look for.

Home Baseball Game 1 – 5 p.m. · Baseball Field LBCC vs. Linfield JV’s Student Summit 2 – 3 p.m. · Fireside Room Come and discuss ideas to increase student engagement & ideas to improve student campus experiences.

Hope to see you there!

Friday

4/19

LBCC Closed (Inservice) Spring Light Fundraiser 7:30 p.m. · Benton Center Lobby Enjoy readings by English dept. faculty and students, along with drinks, savory treats and desserts. Suggested donation is $10 for adults 21 and over, $5 for students 21 and over.

Saturday

Home Baseball Game 1 – 5 p.m. · Baseball Field LBCC vs. Clackamas C.C.

Monday

Friday: Chef’s Choice Monday: English Style Fish and Chips, Beef Stew, Chef’s Choice Vegetarian*. Soups: Chicken and Wild Rice*, and Ginger Curry Carrot Tuesday Poached Salmon over Mushroom Rice Pilaf with Bearnaise*, Meat Lasagna, Vegetable Pot Pie. Soups: Albondigas* and Roasted Vegetable Chowder.

Items denoted with a * are gluten free

4/20

4/22

Auditions for Summer Repertory 7 – 10 p.m. · Russell Tripp Theatre Auditions being held for the Midsummers Arts in the Park sponsored by Willamette Theater Festival, www.willamettetheaterfestival.com

Tuesday

Willamette Theater Festival, www.willamettetheaterfestival.com.

Wednesday

Earth Day Sustainability Fair 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. · Courtyard Recycling, composting, solar energy & alternative fuels info. Projects: Talking Waters, East Thornton Lake, and water conservation. Tours: Green Roof & organic garden. Buy fresh veggies! Recycle old shoes!

4/23

Spring Term Blood Drive 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. · Fireside Rooms Join LBCC & the Red Cross to save lives through the Statewide Blood Drive. Make a difference in someone’s life!

Veterans Club Meeting Noon – 1 p.m. · RCH-116 Home Baseball Game 1 – 5 p.m. · Baseball Field LBCC vs. Southwestern Oregon C.C. Baseball Tailgate 5 – 7 p.m. · Baseball Field Come and boost team spirit! Enjoy food and drinks with fellow sports fans. (No alcohol involved.)

Auditions for Summer Repertory 7 – 10 p.m. · Russell Tripp Theatre Auditions being held for the Midsummers Arts in the Park sponsored by

4/24

Spring Term Blood Drive 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. · Fireside Room Join LBCC & the Red Cross to save lives through the Statewide Blood Drive. Make a difference in someone’s life!

America Incarcerated: Addressing US Prison Reform Noon – 1 p.m. · DAC Join a discussion about citizens behind bars in the US. Why this happens & what can be done to turn it around.

Friday

4/26

Active Minds Meeting Noon · NSH 110 Bring your creativity and help LBCC’s psychology club promote mental health awareness on campus and in the LB community. Public is welcome.

Benton Center Acoustic Showcase featuring Cooper Hollow Noon – 1 p.m. · Benton Center Student Lounge Join us for an hour of free acoustic music. COOPER HOLLOW BAND plays a high-energy mix of bluegrass, old-time fiddle tunes, country, blues, and rags, with a bit of Cajun thrown in for spice.

If you have a Campus Event, please e-mail them to commuter@linnbenton.edu.

Classifieds Deadline: Ads accepted by 5 p.m. Friday will appear in the following Wednesday issue.

Ads will appear only once per submission. If you wish a particular ad to appear in successive issues, you must resubmit it.

Cost: Ads that do not solicit for a private business are free to students, staff and faculty.

All others are charged at a rate of 10 cents per word, payable when the ad is accepted.

Sign up at www.linnbenton.edu/go/StudentEmployment to look at student & graduate jobs. After completing a simple Student Employment Profile form, you will have access to job postings, many of them are self-referrals. If you have questions, please email jobs@linnbenton.edu or call 541.917.4803.

Thursday: Kalua Pork over Rice*, Herb Crusted Chicken over Braised Kale, Falafel. Soups: Tom Kha Gai* and Minestrone.

commuter.linnbenton.edu

Campus Events

Help Wanted

Wednesday: Hazelnut-Arugula Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken, Paella*, Squash Enchiladas*. Soups: Saffron Chicken and Rice, and Tomato Basil*

The Commuter

Water Treatment Trainee (#10280, Grants Pass) Temporary/ seasonal position will receive training on water plant operations.

There will not be any time off benefits or health insurance benefits associated with this temporary/seasonal position. Required to work swing and/or graveyard shift and day shift for training.

Most likely days off will be weekdays. $15/hr Closes 4/22/13 Teacher’s Aide (#10292, Corvallis) Perform quality work with or without direct supervision. Interact professionally with other employees, clients, donors, and outside agencies. Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments Work independently while understanding the necessity for communication and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations. $9/hr Closes 5/15/13 Certified Support Provider (#10263, Albany) Looking for compassionate people to add to our team of Certified Support Providers in Albany and Corvallis, Oregon. The Certified Sup-

Personals: Ads placed in the “Personals” category are limited to one ad per advertiser per week; no more than 50 words per ad.

Libel/Taste: The Commuter won’t knowingly publish material that treats individuals or groups in unfairly. Any ad judged libelous or in poor taste by the newspaper editorial staff will be rejected.

port Provider (CSP) directly serves our clientele, providing care, support and skills-training to individuals with developmental disabilities and/or mental health challenges. $9.50/hr Closes 6/12/13 Small Engine Repair Shop Mechanic (#10264, Corvallis) Successful candidates must have 2- and 4-cycle certification, experience in chain saw chain sharpening, and basic computer knowledge, as well as excellent customer service skills. Weekend availability needed. Must pass background, reference and drug screenings. Temp to hire position. Benefits available after probation period completed. $14 or DOE Closes 4/30/13 The Spring OSU CAREER FAIR is fast approaching... mark your calendar!

When: Tuesday, April 23, 2013 from 11am - 4pm Where: CH2M Hill Alumni Center (across from Reser Stadium) Who: Check out the Employers & Organizations Attending Why: There are lots of reasons YOU should attend Meet employers (many are OSU alumni) who are coming specifically to meet OSU students. Learn about and/or possibly be selected to interview for current jobs and internships. For more information contact Career Services at 541-737-4085, career. services@oregonstate.edu, or visit our website.

Persons having questions about or requests for special needs and accommodations should contact the Disability Coordinator at Linn-Benton Community College, RCH-105, 6500 Pacific Blvd. SW, Albany, Oregon 97321, Phone (541)-917-4690 or via Oregon Telecommunications Relay TTD at 1-800-735-2900 or 1-800-735-1232. Contact should be made 72 hours or more in advance of the event.

The Commuter commuter.linnbenton.edu

Surreal Living

Page 11 Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Poetry Spotlight Departure

by Michael Rivera It’s hard to see one you love on the depart, especially when you never conveyed what’s in your heart.

You never expect these affections, at the beginning.

Or once they set in, they seldom go fleeing.

It all starts with building an affable dynamic, and soon, you’re an amorous manic.

Time is a deceitful gift we generously give, solidified preface and conclusions of charity as we continue to live.

Why do I live in my torment?

What good comes from my self-inflicted lament?

How did I become this seduced sycophant?

When will I realize my need to circumvent?

I thought I was master of charismatic induction, a persuasive innovator, attracting with calculated seduction.

But alas, concrete inevitability is my kryptonite, ‘tis my weakness which I lack oversight.

It’s hard to love, for most of us leave as we age, writing consistencies and discrepancies on each other’s sacred page.

It’s even harder to audaciously say, describing your emotion when the person is to go away.

If I don’t tell you, I won’t hurt you.

Just know...

I will always miss you, but never stop loving you.

Submit your poems and artwork to commuter@linnbenton.edu

By Jason Maddox An LBCC student-generated comic

Page 12 Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Arts & Entertainment

The Commuter commuter.linnbenton.edu

Walmsley to be Honored at Whiteside Brooke Collison Contributing Writer

Tom Walmsley’s death in September of 2012 left a big hole in the Corvallis music and theater world. As a community member, Walmsley had significant presence. The Corvallis Repertory Singers pay tribute to Walmsley’s artistic life through dedication of the April 18 Opera at the Whiteside concert.

Corvallis Mayor Julie Manning, who worked with Walmsley and others in the start-up phase of the Corvallis Repertory Singers, said, “Tom was a natural on-stage, whether singing, acting, or narrating ... he appeared to me to be someone who enjoyed life to the fullest, and he translated that joie de vivre to what he did on stage.” Corvallis listeners certainly enjoyed Walmsley’s singing and acting.

He is missed.

Steven Zielke, Corvallis Repertory Singers music director, remembers discussing the prospects of starting the Corvallis-based singing group: “When I started thinking about organizing the Repertory Singers, Tom Walmsley was one of the first persons I talked with. It is very fitting that we dedicate this performance to him. I think he would have enjoyed it.”

Tickets for the 7 p.m. show are available for $15 and $20 from Gracewinds Music, Grass Roots Books, Troubadour, WineStyles, and Sid Stevens Jewelers in Albany, or online at tickettomato.com.

Tom Walmsley

provided photo

Santiam Review Cont. continued from Cover Service (4.5 of 5) “The wait staff are first year culinary students so they can experience what it’s like to serve customers before moving to the kitchen,” Woodcock said.

Our waiter was friendly, prompt, and a little nervous. When he approached the table, he demonstrated the process of opening a bottle of wine.

It was only water in the bottle, drat!

He provided his name after I requested it. Working as staff, introductions need to be provided during the first greeting. Customers may not remember it, but they will remember that you forked it over.

He was accurate and attentive. His knowledge about the menu and detailed descriptions were impeccable.

After the main course, he presented the dessert tray and was uncertain about one item. By the time he presented the tray to another table, he was confident and accurate.

The Price (5 of 5) The menu is a la carte, which provides many options of how much or how little food you want to eat.

If our meal was at a five-star restaurant in L.A., it would’ve been over $60. The cost of our meal, including tip, was under $33.

Nobody can beat the price and quality of the food. For a date or if you’re just hungry, this is a must-visit before the end of spring term.

Overall (5 of 5) This is the best kept secret in the valley for price, selection, and taste.

The day we went, a birthday party arrived.

The staff utilized multiple members to service the party. It was Joan Sherf ’s 29th birthday. “We make this a tradition now,” explained Marie Leighton, one of the birthday guests.

“This is a fine dining experience with great prices.”

Several staff members greeted one customer by name:Don Kirby. “The preparation of the food is perfect,” Kirby said. Kirby, who took culinary classes at LBCC 40 years ago, visits every day. “The food quality is so high, it’s a great place.”

Menu items change frequently, and there’s something new daily. Make certain to make reservations at (541)9174392, walk-ins are always welcome.

Shuo Xu

A Cappella group, Blue Light Special, performing “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” at “Life’s a Cabaret” on April 11.

Sing Your Heart Out Shuo Xu Contributing Writer

In the past year, choral activities director James Reddan conducted choir visits to Washington D.C., London, and Honolulu. They also competed in the International Championship of Collegiate a cappella.

During spring break, at the Hawaiian National Heritage Festival, Reddan and his group won one gold and two silver medals for their performances.

“We have five choirs in LBCC, including the concert choir, a women’s choir, the chamber choir, and another two groups—Blue Light Special and Sirens,” Reddan said. Blue Light Special is an all mens group and the Sirens are all women.

“The chamber choir is the one which won the golden prize in Hawaii,” Reddan said.

This is Reddan’s fifth year at the college. He and his choirs work very hard and have very high standards.

“When we are getting close to a competition, we practice almost every day of the week,” Reddan said.

When asked about how Reddan could pick up students for the choirs, he said, “For the concert choir and the women’s choir, anybody can sign up. For the chamber choir, Blue Light Special, and the Sirens, students have to audition.”

“You know you have to work hard to play hard,” Reddan said. “That’s one of things I tell my choirs all the time.”

“If you want to be able to do these things, you have to put the effort in,” Reddan continued. “And you have to make it about the music first before you do anything else.

“I am so happy that my choirs really, really, really get that.”

The choir also performed in London for the Summer Olympics.

“When we were in London, we got to perform outside the tower of London, and we got surrounded by tourists taking pictures and videos,” said Casey Koob, a student of Reddan’s.

Alita Stauber and Emily Slanga, two of Reddan’s

This Weekend At the Movies

Shuo Xu

The Sirens, led by Regan Allen, performing “Rumor Has It” at “Life’s a Cabaret.”

other students, said, “At Hawaii, we all hiked to Diamond Head. One of the group members from chambers proposed to his girlfriend at Diamond Head. We had a lot of fun there in Hawaii.”

“For them, music is not just a class,” said Reddan. “It’s really a way of life.” According to Reddan, some students not only learn how to be good singers, but also write their own music.

“I have a few students who will actually conduct during [future concerts] and learn how to be choral directors,” he said. “Music empowers you; that’s what we want to do. Students want to learn the skills to be successful but also to appreciate all that is out there for them to do.”

Next year, the chamber and concert choirs will compete in the ninth World Choir Games in Riga, Latvia, followed by additional performances in Helsinki, Finland, and Tallinn, Estonia.

“In addition to teaching class, I’m also a full time doctoral student,” Reddan said. “I am working on my doctoral degree in music education.”

As far as Reddan’s concerned, the choir students learn from each other. “We work together, we learn together, and we succeed together,” he said. “If we didn’t do it in that way, we wouldn’t get to where we get to.”

Weather Wednesday (4/17)

Sun, then Clouds

62°/38°

Thursday (4/18)

Sun with Clouds

67°/45°

Friday (4/19)

Showers?

57°/45°

Saturday (4/20)

Getting Warmer

67°/41°

Sunday (4/21)

Clouds with Sun

66°/45°

Monday (4/22)

A Place Beyond the Pines Rated:R Genre: Crime Thriller

The Lords of Salem Rated: R Genre: Gore

Sources: IMDb, Yahoo! Movies, Fandango.com

Clouds, then Sun 66°/42° Tuesday (4/23)

Getting Warmer

75°/50° Source: accuweather.com